THANKSGIVING DINNER

It was a beautiful group! needing but canvas and the
touch of an artist to render it pathetic, tender, gorgeous.MISC 231
Age, on whose hoary head the almond-blossom formed a
crown of glory; middle age, in smiles and the full fruition
of happiness; infancy, exuberant with joy, - ranged side
by side. The sober-suited grandmother, rich in experience,
had seen sunshine and shadow fall upon ninety-six
years. Four generations sat at that dinner-table.
The rich viands made busy many appetites; but, what
of the poor! Willingly - though I take no stock in
spirit-rappings - would I have had the table give a
spiritual groan for the unfeasted ones.
Under the skilful carving of the generous host, the
mammoth turkey grew beautifully less. His was the
glory to vie with guests in the dexterous use of knife and
fork, until delicious pie, pudding, and fruit caused unconditional
surrender.
And the baby! Why, he made a big hole, with two
incisors, in a big pippin, and bit the finger presumptuously
poked into the little mouth to arrest the peel!
Then he was caught walking! one, two, three steps, -
and papa knew that he could walk, but grandpa was
taken napping. Now! baby has tumbled, soft as thistledown,
on the floor; and instead of a real set-to at crying,
a look of cheer and a toy from mamma bring the soft
little palms patting together, and pucker the rosebud
mouth into saying, "Oh, pretty!" That was a scientific
baby; and his first sitting-at-table on Thanksgiving Day
- yes, and his little rainbowy life - brought sunshine
to every heart. How many homes echo such tones of
heartfelt joy on Thanksgiving Day! But, alas! for the
desolate home; for the tear-filled eyes looking longingly
at the portal through which the loved one comes not, or
gazing silently on the vacant seat at fireside and board -MISC 232
God comfort them all! we inwardly prayed - but the
memory was too much; and, turning from it, in a bumper
of pudding-sauce we drank to peace, and plenty, and
happy households.